The South Australian government recently approved plans to build a $330 million desalination plant at Billy Lights Point to address the Eyre Peninsula’s diminishing water reserves, with construction set for March next year.

However, the plant’s location has been a continued point of dispute, and fiercely opposed by community groups who fear the approved site could pose a major threat to the economic, social and environmental viability of the region.

The desal debate first emerged back in 2008, with Billy Lights Point one of four sites canvassed for consideration.

Sound FX Pixabay Bansemer and jackmichaelking

Image: Image Flickr 4.0-license-instead-Deed-Attribution-Flickr-PL-Tandon

Produced By: Emma Wotzke, and Eduardo Jordan

Featured In Story: Glen Ingham – Spokesperson for Hands Off Boston Bay, Dion Dorward – Hands Off Boston Bay member and former CEO of Regional Development Australia, Eyre Peninsular , Marine Biologist – Dr Paul McShane , and

First aired on The Wire, Friday 13 December 2024